Dr Nick Carr is retiring — I was extraordinarily lucky to have him as my mentor

In my life, I have had a number of mentors.

Some have been assigned; some have been unexpected. Many have left a significant imprint on my life, giving me both a glimpse of what I am capable of and a reassurance that things will be okay.

Recently, when one of my favourites — Dr Nick Carr — retired, I was prompted to reflect on the importance of having these guides in our lives.

I did not think I was naive when I began working in general practice. I grew up in inner-city Melbourne, had some very wild friends, worked in rural Victoria and had seen my fair share of confronting situations.